Hello everyone. Hybrid denotes peonies that have 2 or more botanical species in their ancestry. The lactifloras were the first imported to Europe over 200 years ago and are the more traditional type of peonies. Here's a lift from Nate Bremer's website to give you insights into both types:
The lactiflora cultivars are a long grown group of selections of the same species (lactiflora). Flower form, size, color, and structure vary widely and many are quite stunning. Nearly all flowers in this group are fragrant, some much more than others. This group is what most people envision a peony to be and are familiar with. Grandmother likely grew these plants for cutting in bouquets. Ants are sometimes found on these flowers, but this should not stop one from growing them. A number of myths concerning ants on lactiflora peonies are still widely believed by many gardeners...1) The ants help open the flowers or help them bloom--FALSE. 2) Peonies grown near the house will cause ants to come inside--FALSE (the ants may end up in the house as stowaways on cut flowers, but are of a species that will not live in the house and will search for a way to escape). Many of the plants need some support, as their heavy flowers often lean or lie on the ground with their weight. Some newer cultivars have been developed that need no assistance in this regard and are noted as such in the catalog. Their typical bloom period is at the end of the peony season, in Wisconsin that generally means June.
The hybrids are the newest kids on the block and possess a wide range of colors, forms and plant habits. Few have the fragrance of the lactifloras. Plant habit is often superior, as stem strength allows flowers to be held upright, thus making them better plants for viewing and growing in the garden. Foliage and growth habits are also quite diverse among the hybrids. Lacey fern-like foliage to large rounded leaves are not unusual within the hybrids. Even the root systems have their own odd characteristics. Roots can be long and narrow or be bulbous with long narrow necks and everything in between. Some cultivars within the hybrid group even have colored roots of lavender or yellow. Most gardeners are not familiar with this group, but will certainly want them in their gardens once they are seen in bloom!
Difference between a lactiflora and a hybrid
Interesting info, thank you for sharing it. I am nursing my first Peony back to health, and am eager to learn more about them.